Transfer News and Gossip – Oct 23rd

Premier League and Europe:

• Barcelona have received informal approaches from Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City for forward Lionel Messi who is growing frustrated with Spanish authorities following ongoing tax issues. (The Sun)
• Chelsea will look to make another offer for defender John Stones with Everton determined to seal a new deal for the Englishman. (Daily Mirror)
• Thorgan Hazard who is the brother of Chelsea winger Eden, is having his progress monitored by Tottenham after the Belgium’s performances in Europe have caught their attention. (Daily Mail)
• Italian side Fiorentina may make an offer for striker Radamel Falcao after the Colombian’s failed to make any sort of impact at Chelsea. (Daily Mirror)
• On-loan Crystal Palace striker Patrick Bamford could make his way back to parent club Chelsea as he is becoming frustrated with his current playing time. (Evening Standard)
• FC Porto have stated that midfielder Ruben Neves is not for sale with several Premier League clubs interested. (Daily Mail)
• Athletic Bilbao have told Chelsea and Manchester United that 21-year-old defender Aymeric Laporte will cost them £35 million.
• Arsenal may make a bid for Argentine Ezequiel Lavezzi in order to add to their attacking line-up but Barcelona are also interested and could try hijack a deal. (Mirror)